SYNTHESIS
Although the structures of the
Southwest are powerfully simple in
form, they contain a strong tradition of
ornament. This is usually highlighted in
doors, gates, light fixtures, and
handcrafted building hardware. The
courtyard tradition, a logical response
to the climate, creates opportunities
for U-shaped and L-shaped structures
as well as comfortable entryways and gardens.
The province’s strong light offers high potential
for sustainability as the ever-present sun can be
harvested for heating and energy. Designers and
builders throughout the Southwest have returned
to the area’s historic roots. From San Diego to
Albuquerque, people seek architecture that
defines the Southwest as special and distinctive.
Figure of sign kiosk with desired characteristics:
• Open roof with lattice for shading
• Organized graphics
Figure of picnic tables with desired characteristics:
• Recycled plastic/wood members
• Simple form
• Accessible
Figure visitor/interpretive facility with desired characteristics:
• Low cluster of horizontal buildings
• Structure creates shading
Pueblo, Territorial, and Spanish Colonial Revival
designs are now the norm in new housing,
commercial, and civic projects. Chain restaurants
and motels have also appropriated these styles.
As we strive to define the Forest Service’s
identity, we must be aware of the potential to
trivialize the province’s distinct design. Care
must be taken to incorporate elements of
Southwest style without resorting to clichés
or quasi-historical replicas.
Figure of ramada picnic structure with desired characteristics:
• Exposed structure, lattice for shade
• Split-face block
• Stepped walls
Figure of administration/interpretive facility with desired characteristics:
• Long, open porch
• Horizontal form
SOUTHWEST
Figure of Toilet building with desired characteristics:
• Split-face concrete block with ribbed block details
• Native plant materials
Figure of administration/interpretive facility with desired characteristics:
• Soft stucco edges
• Territorial influences
• Punched, vertical windows
Figure of maintenance/work facility with desired characteristics:
• Low, horizontal form
• Pueblo influences
Figure of Interpretative/shade structure with desired characteristics:
• Native stone matching local geology
• Indigenous influences
• Open lattice roof for shade only
Figure of maintenance/work facility with desired characteristics:
• Economical construction, but with Southwest expression
• Ornamental banding
Figure of guardrail, wall, and culvert with desired characteristics:
• Native stone dry-laid in horizontal, random pattern
• Finished culvert end